As it emerges that we receive on average two unwanted sales calls a week, we
explain how to cross yourself off the "suckers list".

How many times have you been called about claiming for PPI insurance that you don't actually own? According to the regulator Ofcom, we receive two nuisance calls a week – and half of all sales calls are from PPI claims management companies.

The rest are from utility companies, market research and insurance providers, all unsolicited and unwanted.

But you don't have to put up with this invasion. Despite the implementation of the free Telephone Preference Service (TPS), thousands of us are still hounded daily by nuisance calls.

The TPS is a database, run by the marketing industry, which telemarketing firms are supposed to check before making calls. If your name is on the list they are supposed to leave you in peace.

Many companies are not doing so however, and so we continue to receive the unwanted calls.

There are certain actions you can take to deter companies, and in the event that companies still hound you report them to the Information Commisioner's Office. The ICO can impose fines of up to £500,000 on these companies, and you can go after compensation. It can be contacted on 0303 123 1113 or 01625 545745. More details can be found at www.ico.org.co.uk.

1) Sign up to the TPS

It can't stop all nuisance calls but it does reduce the number you receive. The TPS is a free service, and if you receive calls after signing up you can report them to the ICO as technically they are breaking the law.

2) Take down details

The TPS can't trace calls so make sure you take down the details of any company who calls you after you sign up the TPS

3) Don't tick the box – or do

Companies use increasingly innovate ways to get you to agree to receive calls and emails from them and their business partners. It used to be a simple case of "tick this box if you do not wish to receive further communications from us", but now you may find that leaving the box clear ensures you do not receive any unwanted calls. Carefully read the blurb before opting out – whether by ticking, or not ticking the appropriate box.

4) Stop silent calls

Silent calls are the result of a malfunctioning automated service and cannot be reduced or stopped by the TPS. To make sure you don't receive any, register your number for free on the Silent Callguard service. Call 0844 372 2325 or visit silentgard.com.

5) Say no to junk mail

Snail mail pamphlets are on the decline, but you are still at risk from junk mail through the letter box.

To stop Royal Mail making a buck off you – and reduce the superfluous material on your door mat email optout@royalmail.co.uk with your name and address, and say that you do not want any door-to-door sales material.